This is the time of year that is special because is engenders the spirit of giving and selflessness of its sacred origins. Each of us, in his or her own way, has a special place in our heart for this joyful time.

As we put others' needs and desires first, as we look forward to the expression of surprise and delight on our loved ones' faces as they receive our gifts, as we peruse the ailes, let us consider the economic import of our duty.

Some of the nations producing the goods we will place in our carts are not characterized by the same selflessness and generosity that has governed our actions in time of crisis and natural disaster. Some nations do not value freedom or the individual, and seek only to profit on a seasonal tradition Some companies have little concern for America or the long-term consequences of tunnel-visioned pursuit of the Almighty Buck. Pursuit of profits in a free and fair market is one thing, but when that pursuit fails to consider maintenance of the road travelled or basic traffic signs, the road itself eventually deteriorates.

I hope we can discuss here ways to search out and buy only American and America-friendly goods. We must realize that many companies have caught on to the negative stigma attached to China and Chinese goods - a stigma that has ballooned over the last six months but which has existed in informed minds for years prior. Some companies will advertise boldly that their goods are made with American materials but fail to divulge that these materials are shipped to Beijing for assembly by what for all intents and purposes are slaves, or worse, political prisoners.

In my experience the workmanship of American-made goods is almost always superior to that of an inexpensive Chinese knock-off. Consider that this in some cases adds intangible value to the gift itself in the eyes of the person receiving it. Consider also that your American-made gifts may well outlast the latter by many years. There is value in quality over quantity, and you really do, generally speaking, get what you pay for. If you love America, buy the best - or at the very least buy from Canada, Japan, Europe, Mexico, and other less-hostile nations. Make intelligent choices this holiday season for America's sake.

Do not forget our troops: those men and women that we all so adore and admire, fighting for freedom on foreign soil. Many will be away from hearth, home, mother, father, wife again this year. They have their brothers-in-arms, united in a common and noble cause. Let us bolster their work in our way here at home by supporting our own economy and prolonging the American ideal for which they so diligently labor and yes, sometimes bleed. Let us remember them in our thoughts, in our prayers, and with continued care packages as we long for their safe return from a successful mission.

Lastly, remember to pray for the Chinese people - many of whom are our Christian brothers and sisters - and yes, for their government. The nation is indeed a threat, both economically and militarily, but God is above all and holds the hearts of kings.

Wishing each of my Christian brothers and sisters a blessed Christmas, and my Jewish friends a joyful and blessed Hanukkah.

American goods are still out there. What you propose is possible. When you buy an American made product you do two things: A) you reward the manufacturers themselves, and B) you reward the merchant for carrying their goods. If enough people do it, and do it consistently, business will get the message.

From a patriotic consumer standpoint, this takes a little extra work when shopping: reading product labels, being willing to go to another store. I do not think this is a whole lot to ask in light of others are doing for America.

Good thoughts ... but I have to take exception to your characterization of Mexico as a ‘less-hostile’ nation. They are one of the most hostile to our way of life and are doing everything they can to destroy what we have built, IMHO.

First of all, you have implied a false-dichotomy: that to prefer American goods is to oppose free trade. No, that IS free market economics - consumers voting with their wallets. There is no rule dictating that nation of origin may NOT be a criteria in purchasing decisions. It is your right, and mine. If you want to vote for the Chi Coms, you support what they are doing, you believe they make a superior product then hey, it's your money.

Secondly, like it or not, there will be a hit this year on Chinese goods - for reasons other than what I laid out. I don't have a good footing on the extent, but the media attention on lead paints combined with the always-wear-a-helmet mentality of many (not all) a suburban mom will have more people looking for that "Made in China" sticker than usual. This, too, is part of a free market economy.

Fiestaware is American made, by the Homer Laughlin China company. It’s very durable (Homer Laughlin makes a lot of the dishes, cups, etc that are used in restaurants, so it has to be able to take a beating), and you can be sure that you won’t be eating off of anything that has lead in it.

buy from Canada, Japan, Europe, Mexico, and other less-hostile nations

Mexico is hardly a less-hostile nation. They are invading our country and plan to take it over with the blessing and complicity of their President.

I have been label reading for a couple years now. While shopping at a local store I saw a display of candles. Upon inspecting the label, I discovered they were from Israel. Although I did not need candles at the time, I bought a bunch of them. ;*)

Recently I was shopping for a specific material. Every bolt I pulled out was from China. Finally I asked a clerk if there was nothing from any other country, preferably the USA. She came up with one from Pakistan, but made a face when saying the country. I quickly said, I'll take it! At least they are an ally. She was stunned.

16
posted on 11/23/2007 4:31:02 PM PST
by Just A Nobody
(PISSANT for President '08 - NEVER AGAIN...Support our Troops! Beware the ENEMEDIA)

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